Ambient, Decorative and Task Lighting:
Ambient light is the main light source generated within a room and can be a combination of different lighting, such ceiling spot-lights, pendants and wall lights. Ambient light will often create the overall mood of the room be it sophisticated, formal or relaxed. Ambient lighting sources often generate diffused light; this is the reflection of light from a surface which has been diffused into many angles. This creates a much softer light that produces fewer shadows within a room, rather than a precise directional light. Ambient light can also give and change the colour of the room which also helps to create different moods that can change or create atmosphere. Below are some examples of different ambient lighting:
Decorative lighting products include chandeliers and some pendants, wall and table lamps. With decorative lighting however, the form and design is more important than the light source it creates. The mood these products will create will be to enhance and bring out the specific design of a room. Some examples of decorative lighting can be seen below:
Task Lighting is used to bring light to a specific task or function, such as reading lamps, table pendants, under cupboard spot lighting and display case lighting. Task lighting is mainly directional light, which is light that illuminates a relatively small area with a distinct beam. Task lighting will often be used where a specific function is needed, however, it can also create quite a dramatic effect by highlighting the form of an object or texture within a room. This in turn can create quite a dramatic mood and atmosphere, particularly when used for display lighting purposes. Below are some examples of task lighting:
Lighting is a key element when putting together a room design and a well designed lighting scheme will often have a combination of ambient, decorative and task lighting within it.
